Physical First Aid Versus Mental Health First Aid

All of us are familiar with the office Physical First Aider and most of us have a good idea of what to do if someone needs physical aid. In contrast our confidence drops when we are asked who the office Mental Health First Aider is, most of us don’t know how to aid a colleague in psychological distress. The understandable fear of making the situation worse by saying the wrong thing, can result in nothing being done at all. The power of asking someone if they’re really okay can be the first step towards improving mental health issues, MHFA training with Psychology Wales provides the confidence and skill set required to support others.

What is Mental Health First Aid?

MHFA is designed to improve work place mental health. It works exactly the same way as physical first aid training, except it focuses on mental health and wellbeing. It provides the practical know how and tools that are absolutely essential to address wellbeing issues in the workplace. You don’t need to be a trained therapist or have any background training. At Psychology Wales we are mental health experts on demand and trusted MHFA providers.

Why is Mental Health First Aid Important?

Mental health interventions in the work place are essential because stress, depression and anxiety accounted for over half of workplace absence and working days lost in 2018 [i]

Because we can’t visualise mental health problems the awareness and acceptance has always been lagging slightly behind. Thankfully this is changing and is now on the agenda of businesses, MPs and the public. All of whom are challenging the stigma so that mental health is perceived as no more of a weakness than a physical injury. The future is bright and MHFA is likely to become a compulsory workplace requirement by law, alongside physical first aid.

Why Invest in Mental Health First Aid Training?

MHFA is a type of early intervention that aims to prevent worsening of mental health issues. MHFA promotes a more accepting and understanding work place, that will hopefully increase engagement and cut absence. Mental ill health costs UK businesses billions a year. Evidence-based success stories from investing in MHFA include Thames Water that trained 350 staff members in MHFA England as part of a mental health strategy and reported:

“75% Reduction in work related stress anxiety and depression over the last 5 years”. And “Recorded five times as many Mental Health Interventions compared to Physical health interventions”[i]

Register your interest here for MHFA (Wales) training course with Psychology Wales

Held at our Newport Clinic on the 25^thand 26^thof March 2019 costing £220 per delegate (maximum 14 delegates)

Gain an understanding of mental health and the factors that affect wellbeing. Achieve improved awareness of mental health and the knowledge and skills to support employees including sign posting. Problem solve and recognise symptoms when a colleague is struggling. Learn enhanced interpersonal skills, non-judgemental listening and communication skills. The course is not restricted to employers, it is suitable for anyone who simply wants to manage their own mental health or to help in a mental health crisis and support others. All course delegates receive a certificate confirming their qualification as a Mental Health First Aider.

Contact us

For more information about upcoming courses and other services, or to arrange bespoke packages at your workplace.

Telephone: 01633 547261

Email: enquiries@psychologywales.co.uk

Website: https://www.psychologywales.co.uk/our-services/mental-health-first-aid-wales/

Photo credit Ella Byworth

Post training top tip: Create a mental health first aid box including self-help resources, tissues, put it next to your physical first aid box to promote a mentally healthy workplace